Newcastle and Manchester United are both said to be preparing huge bids to sign Enzo Fernandez from Benfica.
It was A Bola who claimed that Benfica are expecting Newcastle to trigger their No.13’s massive €120m (£106m) release clause, while South American news outlet UOL stated that Manchester United are also ready to pay it.
Now, an interesting development has occurred.
What’s the story?
Well, just hours after Rui Costa – President of Benfica – revealed that he is willing to let Fernandez leave, the Primeira Liga side have now found a replacement.
According to O Jogo in Portugal, Benfica have identified Carlos Alcaraz as their choice to take over from the Argentina international in Roger Schmidt’s midfield.
However, they face competition from Newcastle and Manchester United’s Premier League rivals Wolves.
Of course, there is still a long way to go in the transfer saga surrounding Fernandez, but it is certainly intriguing to see Benfica identify a replacement for their in-demand World Cup winner.
Interest in Fernandez has intensified significantly after he was awarded the Silver Ball in Qatar – given to the best young player at the World Cup.
Newcastle & Manchester United face competition
Regardless of Benfica signing Alcaraz or not, Eddie Howe and Erik ten Hag still need to fend off competition from some of Europe’s elite clubs if they are to sign Fernandez.
For example, Portuguese news outlet Record believe Jürgen Klopp has convinced the Argentine to join Liverpool, although the Reds are yet to make an official offer.
Additionally, Spanish news outlet Marca claimed that Real Madrid are very keen to sign Fernandez.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as it looks set to be the most intense saga of the January transfer window.
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